Columbia County, GA Emergency Management Agency

10/19/2026

Controlled Burn Notice at Mistletoe State Park

10/10/2026

According to the National Weather Service, Isaias made landfall last night in the Florida Panhandle and has weakened to a post-tropical cyclone as it moves inland well to our west. The rain we’re seeing this morning is from the remnants of Isaias and could continue through tomorrow morning. Scattered thunderstorms are expected from late this morning through the afternoon, and some areas could see up to about 4 inches of rain.

Our area remains under a Wind Advisory, and there is still a slight chance of isolated tornadoes and flash flooding with the stronger storms today. While the rain is welcome, we could see some hazardous weather at times throughout the day.

Please try to limit the amount of time you are on the road and stay home, if possible. If you must go out, please stay weather-aware and be careful.

10/09/2026

According to the National Weather Service, Isaias is expected to become a major hurricane this afternoon before making landfall along the northern Gulf Coast tonight.

While the hurricane and most of its direct impacts will stay well to our west, Columbia County’s most likely window for impacts is overnight tonight through early Sunday morning, with Saturday being the most active day. We can expect periods of rain and breezy to gusty winds. With the ground already wet, a few downed trees, isolated power outages, and some localized flooding in low-lying areas are possible.

As we learned with Helene, the track matters. The heaviest rain and strongest winds will be on the east side of the storm, so if Isaias shifts east after landfall, our impacts COULD increase. We’ll keep a close eye on that, along with forecasts from NWS Columbia, SC, which covers our area. Winds could range from 20mph to 30mph, and in some areas of the county potentially up to 40mph, throughout the day Saturday into Sunday morning as Isaias moves inland and runs into a strong high-pressure system positioned in the Mid-Atlantic.

The graphics show the forecast cone, wind threat, flash flood risk, severe weather outlook, and timing. Keep in mind the cone shows the storm’s anticipated path, NOT how far the wind and rain will reach.

Today is the day to finish preparations. Charge devices, secure outdoor items, check on your friends and family, and make sure you can receive warnings tonight and overnight Saturday.

10/08/2026

Here is the latest precipitation forecast and Excessive Rainfall Outlook for Tropical Storm Isaias. Areas of heavy rainfall are expected to impact the central U.S. Gulf coast and much of the Southeast Friday into the weekend. 🌧️⛈️

Forecast details are subject to change, so continue monitoring for updates!

10/07/2026

Preparedness is not about panic. It is about peace of mind.

Severe weather can develop quickly, and having a basic emergency ready kit helps ensure your household has essential supplies if conditions change or services are disrupted. Take a few minutes to watch this video and consider the steps you can take now to prepare for any type of inclement weather.

A ready kit may include:

💦 Water and nonperishable food

💊 Medications and personal-care items

🔦 Flashlights, batteries, and a weather radio

📱 Phone chargers or backup power banks

🐕 Important documents and supplies for pets

Stay informed through the National Weather Service, trusted local news outlets, and Columbia County EMA communications. Small steps taken today can make a meaningful difference when weather impacts occur.

10/07/2026

Since there is still much uncertainty in the track of Tropical Storm Isaias, please keep an eye on forecast updates from your local National Weather Service office and take a minute to review your hurricane plans with your family.

**OUTDATED - See latest post for updates**

As of the 5 am update, Tropical Storm has formed over the western Gulf. Uncertianity remains in the extent of impacts for north and central Georgia, but widespread rainfall and gusty winds are the current most likely impacts Friday night into Saturday. Impacts and timing are subject to change depending on the storm track so continue to monitor the forecast for updates!

09/25/2026

A little planning now can make a big difference later:

✅ Build a rainy-day fund. Emergency savings can cover gas, food, lodging, or repairs when disaster disrupts daily life.
✅ Budget with the whole year in mind. Set aside a small amount from your monthly income, even if it's just a few dollars.
✅ Know your insurance deductible. If your home is damaged, you'll need to pay that amount before coverage kicks in. Plan for it now.

September is National Preparedness Month. Take one step toward financial readiness this week.

09/22/2026

Tornado Watch vs. Warning – Know the difference

🟢 WATCH = A tornado is possible. Stay tuned to local radio/TV and know where you'll shelter if needed.
⚠️ WARNING = A tornado is happening or imminent. Take shelter immediately.

Have a way to get alerts even without power, use a NOAA weather radio or Columbia County’s Hyper-Reach system!

For more information, please visit https://www.ready.gov/

09/18/2026

Information is one of the most powerful tools you have when emergencies happen. In Columbia County, we use the Hyper-Reach system to send emergency alerts and important community notifications directly to you. From severe weather alerts to evacuation notices.

Why sign up?
- Get real time alerts wherever you are
- Choose how we notify you – call, text, or email - and the types of alerts you receive
- Stay informed about hazards specific to your area
- It’s free and quick to register

Don’t wait until the storm is already here. Sign up now at: http://hyper-reach.com/gacolumbiasignup.html

09/16/2026